5 ways to up your activism to end Big Oil giveaways

8.19.2011

5 ways to up your activism to end Big Oil giveaways

Much has changed in the Gulf, but one thing remains the same -- each year, oil and gas companies still receive more than $10 billion in federal tax breaks and incentives.

On Fri, Aug 19, 2011 at 2:38 PM, Becca Connors, Friends of the Earth <foe@foe.org> wrote:

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Dear Scotts,

Click here to download the action toolkit: 5 ways you can help put an end to oil and gas subsidies.

One year after the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, dead dolphins and sick fish are still washing up in high numbers. Much has changed in the Gulf, but one thing remains the same -- each year, oil and gas companies still receive more than $10 billion in federal tax breaks and incentives.

With the budget crunch on the minds of just about every member of Congress, the time is ripe to finally make progress toward ending these obscene handouts. We've put together a simple action toolkit to help you make an impact.

Click here to download the action toolkit: 5 ways you can help put an end to oil and gas subsidies.

Congress is in recess now -- which means your representatives and senators should be home meeting with you -- their constituents.

Attending town hall meetings and other public events with members of Congress is one of the best ways to make your voice heard, and the action kit includes tips for getting out in the field and organizing with your friends.

Check out our toolkit for sample talking points and tips on how to:

Speak up at town hall meetings. These public events allow you to ask tough questions in front of a wider audience and the media.

Organize an in-district meeting. A private meeting gives you the chance to present your views in a direct, face-to-face conversation with your congressperson.

Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. This can be a powerful tool to have your voice heard by your community and by elected officials who often read local papers to gauge public opinion on key issues.

Click here to download the action toolkit: 5 ways you can help put an end to oil and gas subsidies.

Compared to signing a petition, it takes some extra time and effort to organize a group of friends to attend a town hall meeting. And a little extra courage to raise your voice and ask a question.

But there are few better ways to get our concerns heard by the people who represent us -- and, ultimately, to move protecting the environment up the priority list in Congress.

Together, we can hold our elected officials accountable -- and have some fun in the process.

Let's get out there and make a difference!

Becca and the rest of the Earth Budget team

Friends of the Earth
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Friends of the Earth is fighting to defend the environment and create a more healthy and just world.

Our current campaigns focus on promoting clean energy and solutions to climate change,
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